Each decision has a cost, the question is how much are you spending vs earning a day.
How many hours do you spend working? Commuting? Scrolling on your phone?
All these activities carry a cost—not just in time or money, but in life.
Time is the one resource we can’t get back. Once it’s spent, it’s gone. Dr. Laura Markham, a clinical psychologist, emphasizes, "The decisions we make today shape our future selves. Every choice we make is a step toward or away from the person we want to become."
Consider the things you value most.
We fill our schedules with obligations, chasing after goals that may not even matter to us in a year or even a week, all the while trading away the moments that truly count.
Our past decisions significantly influence our present and future. Unresolved childhood traumas, for instance, can shape how we make choices today. You may think your childhood is independent from the long-term relationship you're in, but in reality, you could be dating your mom or dad. You may think the friends you have are just your friends but they could be manifestations of your childhood envies or insecurities.
Balancing Commitments for a Fulfilling Life
How much of your life are you willing to trade for the goals you have? How much of your life are you willing to save from the desires you have?
Balancing commitments is crucial.
We need to prioritize what truly matters to us and make conscious decisions about how we spend our time. This may look like setting boundaries at work by saying no to extra projects, or carving out time each day for relationships you want to nurture. Whatever and whoever brings you life should be a priority.
Practical Steps for Mindful Decision-Making
- Reflect on Your Values: Reflect on what truly matters to you. This clarity will guide your decision-making process.
- Set Clear Boundaries: Learn to say no to commitments, opportunities, or people that don’t align with your values or contribute to your well-being. It may be hard but what's worse: saying no to a bad influence or wasting your life?
- Address Past Traumas: Seek therapy or counseling to deal with unresolved issues from the past. Give yourself the permission to be free from your past.
- Prioritize Self-Care: Make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine. This includes physical, emotional, and mental health practices.
- Evaluate Your Time: Regularly assess how you’re spending your time and make adjustments to ensure you’re investing in what truly matters.